# Glow Recipe Blackberry Retinol Blemish Serum for acne-prone skin

**Lovi Fit: Superior fit for acne-prone skin.**
Combination Skin Fit: Superior · Effectiveness: High · Safety: Excellent.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/glow-recipe/blackberry-retinol-blemish-serum/for/acne-prone-skin

The Lovi Fit is the same in every country; only the stores and prices differ, and the ones here are for Canada.

Brand: [Glow Recipe](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/brands/glow-recipe)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/best/serums)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with acne-prone skin: breakouts, blackheads, and post-acne marks. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

One of the best serums for acne-prone skin.

## Why this fit

- Excellent suitability for your combination skin, as Retinyl Linoleate and Retinol regulate desquamation while Glycerin provides humectant action to balance oil production and prevent dryness.
- The inclusion of Bisabolol and Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice further soothes your skin, complementing the potent acne-fighting benefits of Retinol and Retinal for reduced inflammation and blemishes.
- This formula is safe for your acne-prone skin, free from harsh ingredients and containing soothing agents that minimize irritation risk.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/glow-recipe/blackberry-retinol-blemish-serum/for/oily-skin): Superior
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/glow-recipe/blackberry-retinol-blemish-serum/for/dry-skin): Caution
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/glow-recipe/blackberry-retinol-blemish-serum/for/combination-skin): Superior
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/glow-recipe/blackberry-retinol-blemish-serum/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/glow-recipe/blackberry-retinol-blemish-serum/for/acne-prone-skin): Superior (this page)
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/glow-recipe/blackberry-retinol-blemish-serum/for/dark-spots): High
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/glow-recipe/blackberry-retinol-blemish-serum/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/glow-recipe/blackberry-retinol-blemish-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Caution
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/glow-recipe/blackberry-retinol-blemish-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Superior

## Key ingredients

Blackberry Extract, Retinol, Squalane, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Bisabolol

## What the research says

- A single application of a moisturizing fluid containing hyaluronic acid 1%, glycerin 5%, and Centella asiatica stem cells extract significantly increased skin hydration by 29% and reduced transepidermal water loss at 24 hours compared to baseline and an untreated control site in twenty healthy women. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/))
- A cream combining propolis, tea tree oil, and Aloe vera reduced erythema scars, acne severity index, and total lesion count better than erythromycin cream in sixty patients with mild to moderate acne vulgaris compared to placebo. ([Clinical Pharmacology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30588129/))
- Topical application of blackberry extract protects SKH-1 mice skin from chronic UVB-induced oxidative damage and inflammation by reducing hyperplasia, inflammatory cell infiltration, oxidative markers, pro-inflammatory cytokines, and modulating MAP kinase and NF-kappaB signaling pathways. ([Toxicology and Applied Pharmacology, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25680589/))
- A blackberry and dill extract combination synergistically increased skin elasticity and induced elastogenesis compared to each ingredient alone and placebo. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32583541/))
- Tropical highland blackberry juice reduced UVB-mediated DNA damage and increased apoptosis in human epidermal keratinocytes and a reconstituted skin equivalent model. ([Photochemistry and Photobiology, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23711186/))
- Strawberry and blackberry crude extracts, anthocyanin-enriched fractions, and proanthocyanidin-enriched fractions demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects through ROS reduction, gene expression inhibition, and NO suppression, while anthocyanin fractions promoted fibroblast migration in vitro. ([Food Research International, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31108769/))
- Topical 0.4% retinol significantly increased epidermal thickness, dermal vascularity, and extracellular matrix production by stimulating keratinocyte proliferation, endothelial cell proliferation, and fibroblast activation in naturally aged human skin compared to vehicle. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27261203/))
- Topical bakuchiol 0.5% applied twice daily compared with retinol 0.5% applied daily significantly decreased wrinkle surface area and hyperpigmentation with no statistical difference between the compounds in 44 patients over 12 weeks, while retinol users reported more facial skin scaling and stinging. ([The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/))
- Silicone particles encapsulating retinol increased its half-life by 9-fold and yielded 12-23% lower skin irritation in human subjects compared to Microsponge particles while maintaining biological activity. ([Journal of Controlled Release, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29604311/))
- Squalane at 0.005-0.015% counteracts UVA-induced oxidative stress, inflammation, and collagen metabolism inhibition while stimulating fibroblast migration in human dermal fibroblasts. ([Molecules, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40363772/))
- Plant-derived squalane protected human dermal fibroblasts against UVA-induced damage by counteracting ROS formation, suppressing apoptosis-related proteins p53, caspase-3, caspase-9, and PARP, and restoring the pro-survival p-Akt/mTOR pathway. ([Antioxidants, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40722956/))
- Topical aloe vera gel significantly accelerated split-thickness skin graft donor-site healing compared to placebo in 12 patients, but showed no significant difference in pain relief. ([Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29649056/))
- Topical application of Aloe vera cream reduced postoperative pain at rest and during defecation, accelerated wound healing at two weeks, and decreased analgesic requirements in patients after open hemorrhoidectomy compared to placebo. ([Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20569031/))
- Formulations containing 0.10%, 0.25%, and 0.50% freeze-dried Aloe vera extract increased stratum corneum water content compared with the vehicle in 20 female subjects, while transepidermal water loss was not modified. ([Skin Research and Technology, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17026654/))
- Application of an alpha-bisabolol-containing cream produced a significant skin-lightening effect in pigmented skin compared to a vehicle control in the majority of female subjects after 8 weeks. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20642768/))
- The combination of allantoin, bisabolol, D-panthenol and dipotassium glycyrrhizinate reduces UVB-induced PGE2, inflammatory cytokines, and mitochondrial superoxide in human epidermal keratinocytes. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38433250/))

## What reviewers say

This serum is widely praised as a gentle yet effective entry-level retinol that clears acne and smooths texture without the irritation typical of stronger retinoids. While many users with sensitive skin report excellent results in fading dark spots and reducing breakouts, a notable minority experienced adverse reactions to the fragrance or found the formula too weak for advanced needs.

- Liked: Gentle, non-irritating (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Clears acne (often mentioned)
- Liked: Improves texture (often mentioned)
- Liked: Fast absorption (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Hydrating formula (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Strong fragrance (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Caused breakouts (rarely noted)
- Disliked: High price point (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Too weak (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use your serum as part of your PM routine and start 3x/week before working up to daily use.
- Apply this treatment after cleansing and toner, and before your moisturizer.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the serum into your skin and let it absorb for a minute.
- Apply the product on clean, dry skin to help manage your breakouts safely.
- Avoid the eye area and do a patch test before your first use.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes Glow Recipe Blackberry Retinol Blemish Serum one of the best fits for acne-prone skin?

This serum is one of the best fits because retinol regulates shedding while glycerin balances oil and prevents dryness. Additionally, soothing ingredients like bisabolol and aloe leaf juice help reduce inflammation and keep irritation low.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/), [Clinical Pharmacology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30588129/)

### Which ingredients make this serum a good fit for acne-prone skin?

Retinol and retinyl linoleate help clear blemishes by regulating skin shedding, while glycerin adds moisture to prevent dryness. Additionally, ingredients like bisabolol and aloe leaf juice calm redness and irritation to keep your skin comfortable.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/), [Clinical Pharmacology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30588129/)

### What does Blackberry Extract do for acne-prone skin?

Blackberry extract helps calm red and irritated acne-prone skin by reducing inflammation. It also helps fight skin damage from the sun and everyday stress that can make breakouts worse.
Sources: [Toxicology and Applied Pharmacology, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25680589/), [Food Research International, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31108769/)

### What does Retinol do for acne-prone skin?

Retinol helps acne-prone skin by speeding up cell turnover and clearing pores to reduce breakouts. It regulates skin growth and fights inflammation, though it may cause some mild peeling or stinging when you first start using it.
Sources: [Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35816067/), [The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28318351/)

### Where does this serum go in a skincare routine for acne-prone skin?

This serum goes in your evening routine after cleansing and before moisturizing. Putting treatments in the evening helps keep your skin safe around sun exposure while working on blemishes.

### Can I use this serum with vitamin C, and in what order?

It is best to use vitamin C in your morning routine and this serum at night to help prevent irritation on acne-prone skin. Using them at different times of day allows both ingredients to work effectively without overwhelming your skin.
Sources: [American Family Physician, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23062156/)

### How often should I use this serum?

Use this treatment serum in the evening once a week to start, and gradually use it more often if your skin tolerates it well and shows good results. This formula is safe for acne-prone skin, using soothing ingredients to help minimize the irritation risk typically associated with retinoids.
Sources: [Facial Plastic Surgery, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24488631/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36798538/)

### Can this serum clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for acne-prone skin?

This serum is unlikely to cause breakouts and is a superior fit for acne-prone skin because ingredients like retinol regulate skin shedding while soothing agents help calm irritation. Reviewers rarely report breakouts from this product, and its gentle formula minimizes the risk of clogged pores.
Sources: [Clinical Pharmacology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30588129/)

### Is this serum fragrance-free and alcohol-free?

It has no drying alcohol and contains fragrance (parfum).

## Alternatives for acne-prone skin

- [Skin1004 Probio-Cica Intensive Ampoule](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/skin1004/probio-cica-intensive-ampoule/for/acne-prone-skin) — High fit — CA$24.44 at Amazon
- [Dr.Althea Vitamin C Boosting Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/dr-althea/vitamin-c-boosting-serum/for/acne-prone-skin) — High fit — CA$27.99 at Amazon
- [ANUA PEACH 70% NIACINAMIDE SERUM](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/anua/peach-70-niacinamide-serum/for/acne-prone-skin) — High fit — CA$33.50 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [B.LAB Matcha Hydrating Foam Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/b-lab/matcha-hydrating-foam-cleanser/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — CA$22.95 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Resist Advanced Replenishing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/paula-s-choice/advanced-replenishing-toner/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — CA$41.00 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [CeraVe CeraVe PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cerave/pm-facial-moisturizing-lotion/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — CA$20.96 at Amazon

## Where to buy

No store in Canada has a checked price for this product, so the page shows none.

## Ingredients

Water, Glycerin, Squalane, Neopentyl Glycol Diheptanoate, Ectoin, Limnanthes Alba Seed Oil, Blackberry Fruit Extract, Bisabolol, Retinyl Linoleate, Epilobium Angustifolium Stem Extract Flower Leaf, Tocopheryl Acetate, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Retinal, Hibiscus Sabdariffa Fruit Extract, Retinol, Tocopherol, Zingiber Officinale Root Extract, Sorbitan Isostearate, Erythritol, Citric Acid, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Phytate, Ammonium Polyacryloyldimethyl Taurate, Glycine Soja Oil, Sodium Hydroxide, Chlorphenesin, Phenoxyethanol, Parfum
## About the Lovi Fit

Lovi: Unbiased, science-based skincare AI trained on real user outcomes.

Lovi calculates every fit score from the full ingredient list with brand-independent rules its dermatologists and cosmetic chemists build and review, and personalizes every pick with AI trained on the real results of millions of users. Lovi trains its fit score models on a proprietary dataset built from more than 10,000 expert-labeled products and more than 100,000 simulated examples, following an internally consistent methodology presented at Cosmoprof, AMWC, and Skin of Color Update. Levels from best to worst: Superior, High, Average, Low, Caution, Warning.

Behind this fit score: Nadia Kapleva, MS (Co-founder, Medical Director); Alexey Shagraev, PhD (Co-founder, CEO and CTO); Dr. Sofía Perea Pérez, MD, MSc (Medical Board); Aishani Shah, MD (Medical Board); Asya Zubkova, MS (Medical Board); Hanna Kurets, MD (Medical Board, Medical Advisor); Elina Nazarenko, MD (Medical Board); Victoria Derkova, MS (Medical Board).

Page built Nov 8, 2026.

More from Lovi: https://lovi.care/skincare/llms.txt

## This page in other countries

- United States: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/glow-recipe/blackberry-retinol-blemish-serum/for/acne-prone-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/glow-recipe/blackberry-retinol-blemish-serum/for/acne-prone-skin
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- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/glow-recipe/blackberry-retinol-blemish-serum/for/acne-prone-skin (this page)
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/glow-recipe/blackberry-retinol-blemish-serum/for/acne-prone-skin
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